Utrecht to Groningen train with Intercity

Thu, Jul 30
+ Add return
Intercity
NS International | IC Brussel
Intercity
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Intercity
NS International | IC Brussel
Intercity
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Utrecht to Groningen

Showing times and prices for Jul 30

Cheapest price

$33

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

1 h 51 m

Average duration

1 h 51 m

Trains per day

17

Distance

159 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Utrecht to Groningen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Utrecht to Groningen will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

Of the 17 trains that leave Utrecht for Groningen on Thu, Jul 30, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 159 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 51 m .

On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 1 h 51 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • NS DomesticIC 629 · IC 729
    9:21 AM1h51
    Utrecht Centraal
    11:12 AMGroningen station
    $331One-way
    1 transfer
  • NS DomesticIC 527
    8:51 AM1h51
    Utrecht Centraal
    10:42 AMGroningen station
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • NS DomesticIC 531
    9:51 AM1h51
    Utrecht Centraal
    11:42 AMGroningen station
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • NS DomesticIC 625 · IC 725
    8:21 AM1h51
    Utrecht Centraal
    10:12 AMGroningen station
    $331One-way
    1 transfer
  • NS DomesticIC 523
    7:51 AM1h51
    Utrecht Centraal
    9:42 AMGroningen station
    $331One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Utrecht to Groningen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $33.

Distance: 98 miles (159 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$35

Average price

$20

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

3h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 8m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Intercity

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Utrecht to Groningen is a bus with an average price of $20 (€20).

This is compared to other travel options from Utrecht to Groningen:

A bus is $15 (€15) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Utrecht to Groningen costing on average $35 (€35).

The fastest way to travel from Utrecht to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.

Other travel options to Groningen take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Utrecht and Groningen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 9m faster (1h 59m by train vs 2h 8m by car) and roughly $0.39 (€0.39) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($35 (€35) vs $35 (€35)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Utrecht to Groningen train times

The table below shows live departures for Utrecht to Groningen trains for today, Wednesday, July 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
NS International | IC Brussel7:21 AM Utrecht
1h51
9:12 AM Groningen0 transfersDirect
NS International | IC Brussel8:21 AM Utrecht
1h51
10:12 AM Groningen0 transfersDirect
NS International | IC Brussel12:51 PM Utrecht
1h51
2:42 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect
NS International | IC Brussel6:51 PM Utrecht
1h51
8:42 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect
NS International | IC Brussel8:21 PM Utrecht
1h51
10:12 PM Groningen0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Utrecht to Groningen by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05

Why should you book Utrecht to Groningen trains with Omio?

Intercity as well as NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Utrecht to Groningen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Intercity?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Utrecht to Groningen.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Utrecht to Groningen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Utrecht to Groningen

NetherlandsNetherlands
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Utrecht to Groningen run on average 76 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€33) but you can travel from only $11 (€11) by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 1h 51m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€11)
Distance
98 miles (159 km)
Average train duration
1h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$33 (€33)
Trains per day
76
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 51m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€11)

Train companies: Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Utrecht to Groningen trainsIntercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Utrecht and Groningen from $11 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Intercity

About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone

NS International | IC Brussel

About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The "IC Brussel" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€33)
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€85)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
25 a day

Complete guide to Groningen

Things to do in Groningen

Discover the best of Groningen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Groningen trip today.

  • Must visit

Groninger Museum

Leading museum in a bold postmodern building, known for modern art, design, and changing exhibitions beside the station.

  • Recommended

Universiteitsmuseum Groningen

University museum with interactive science and medical exhibits, ideal for learning about research and discovery in Groningen.

  • Recommended

Noorderlicht

Photography gallery presenting contemporary visual culture, documentary work, and thought-provoking exhibitions in the city center.

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is manageable, and student-focused spots help keep daily costs reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small tips in cafes are optional.

FAQs: Trains from Utrecht to Groningen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Utrecht to Groningen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Groningen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Utrecht to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€33), while the average price is around $35 (€35).
The train from Utrecht to Groningen takes 1h 51m and runs 76 per day.
The first train from Utrecht to Groningen leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Utrecht to Groningen is 98 miles (159 km).
The last train from Utrecht to Groningen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Utrecht to Groningen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Utrecht to Groningen. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Utrecht to Groningen.
The train station in Utrecht that goes to Groningen is Utrecht Centraal, which connects to Groningen station.
The cheapest way to get from Utrecht to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€11).
The train journey from Utrecht to Groningen offers a scenic view of the Dutch countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and expansive farmland.
A day trip from Utrecht to Groningen is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 51m one way. However, there are 259 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 98 miles (159 km).
In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.
Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.
Yes, you can take the train from Utrecht to Groningen.
Since both Utrecht and Groningen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Utrecht to Groningen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Utrecht to Groningen

Most Utrecht to Groningen trains use the Utrecht Centraal to Groningen station pair, with some services arriving at Groningen Europapark. Use this guide to compare Utrecht and Groningen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Utrecht
Arrival train stations in Groningen

Which Utrecht station do trains to Groningen leave from?

Trains from Utrecht to Groningen leave from Utrecht Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Utrecht city centre at Stationsplein 7, 3511 ED Utrecht, Netherlands.
Utrecht CentraalStationsplein 7, 3511 ED Utrecht, Netherlands+31 30 235 7822WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Utrecht Centraal from Utrecht city centre

Bus350, 2, 5, 8, 18, 28, 55, 73 · 9m · $3 · every ~13 min

Utrecht Centraal train station facilities and services

Utrecht Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Rechtbank, Humphrey's Utrecht

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Utrecht Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Utrecht Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Utrecht Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Utrecht Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Utrecht Centraal: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Crowne Plaza Utrecht, NH Utrecht, Park Plaza Utrecht.

Utrecht Maliebaan3581 BX Utrecht, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155ParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Utrecht Maliebaan from Utrecht city centre

Bus8 · 3m · $3 · every ~8 min

Utrecht Maliebaan train station facilities and services

Utrecht Maliebaan has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Utrecht Maliebaan.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Utrecht Maliebaan.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Utrecht Maliebaan: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Utrecht Maliebaan: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Utrecht Maliebaan.

Utrecht Vaartsche RijnWesterkade 46, 3511 HC Utrecht, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn from Utrecht city centre

Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn is 1 km from Utrecht city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSprinter · 2m · $1 · every ~14 min
Bus8, N4 · 12m · $3 · every ~8 min

Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn train station facilities and services

Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Utrecht Vaartsche Rijn.

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